Extend Your Stay
It is possible to remain in Canada longer than you initially intended or to change the purpose of your stay. Whether you are visiting, working or studying, it is important to understand your options before your current status expires. Applying on time can help you maintain your legal status in Canada and avoid unnecessary complications.
IRCC generally recommends submitting an application to extend your temporary resident status at least 30 days before it expires, although applications can normally be submitted up until the expiry date.
Maintaining Your Status
If you submit a complete application before your current temporary resident status expires, you may be able to remain in Canada while IRCC processes your application. This is commonly referred to as maintained status.
The conditions of your maintained status depend on the type of application you submit and your existing authorization. Understanding these rules before applying is important, particularly if you intend to continue working or studying in Canada.
Work Permit Extensions
If your work permit is approaching its expiry date, you may be eligible to extend your authorization to work or apply for a new work permit under another immigration program. Eligibility depends on your current status, the type of work permit you hold, and whether you continue to meet the program requirements.
Visitor Records
If you would like to remain in Canada longer as a visitor, you will generally need to apply for a Visitor Record before your authorized period of stay expires. A Visitor Record allows you to remain in Canada for a longer period but does not authorize employment or study unless separately permitted.
Study Permit Extensions
Your study permit specifies the date on which your authorization to study expires. If you plan to continue your studies in Canada, you should apply to extend your study permit before that date. Applying early can help avoid interruptions to your education.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply to extend my status?
IRCC recommends submitting your application at least 30 days before your current status expires whenever possible.
Can I stay in Canada while my application is being processed?
If you applied before your status expired, you may be able to remain in Canada under maintained status while IRCC processes your application.
What happens if my status expires?
Losing your temporary resident status may affect your ability to remain, work or study in Canada. Seeking advice as soon as possible can help you understand your available options.
Can I travel outside Canada while on maintained status?
If you leave Canada while benefiting from maintained status, you may lose the ability to continue under that status when you return. Your ability to re-enter Canada and resume working or studying will depend on your circumstances and the applicable immigration legislation. You should seek advice before travelling.
Can I continue working or studying under maintained status?
It depends on the type of application you submitted and the authorization you held before it expired. In many cases, individuals who apply to extend the same type of work permit or study permit before their status expires may continue working or studying under the same conditions until a decision is made. However, maintained status does not automatically grant new rights or change the conditions of your existing authorization.
GLG Insight
Immigration deadlines are only one part of the process. The quality and completeness of your application can have a significant impact on the outcome. Planning ahead allows enough time to gather supporting documents, review your eligibility, and ensure your application is accurate before it is submitted to IRCC.
Need Assistance?
Every immigration situation is unique. Whether you need to extend a visitor record, work permit, study permit or restore your status after it has expired, GLG Immigration Consulting Services can assess your circumstances, explain your options and help prepare the appropriate application.